Stay at the halfway house

“I think I would prefer to stay here for tomorrow,” you answer, “I would like to get to know my new home better.”

“It’s fine, dear,” Rita says and smiles understanding, “maybe next time then.”

You nod and continue to eat. The girls soon begin to chat about some things. G talks with Paula about the upcoming election for towns mayor, Abbie tells Rita something about her work and officer Reno sometimes comments Abbie’s story. Only you and Sophie remain quiet. Sophie is also the only one who immediately leaves without a word when she finishes her meal. The others stay politely until the last one (officer Reno) is done.

“Well, that was nice,” Rita finally says and smiles, “May, I hope you will enjoy your stay here and use the great chance you got. Of course, we will do what we can to support you.”

“But we will also keep an eye on you,” Paula adds calm but strict, “if you cause trouble or try anything funny with one of the girls, you will regret it.”

“I’m sure he is nice,” Abbie says to protect you, “you will see. He is not like …”

“Stop!” Paula immediately blocks, “we will not talk about this in front of him. and you, Max, as long as you follow the rules and stay away from me, we will not have any problems. Cool? I knew would agree. Mom, if you don’t mind I will go to my room and listen some music.”

“Of course, honey,” Rita says a little sad, “and … please be fair. With some time, I’m sure you will get along very good.”

Paula doesn’t answer and heads to her room. You wait with the others and Rita sighs disappointed. An awkward silence spreads.

“I get the feeling she is not very happy about me being here,” you say a little confused, “what was this incident everyone else knows about.”

“The last guy we had here used Paula’s kindness for his advantage,” G mumbles, “got her on his side with sweet words and told her he would love her. Bn instead he just wanted her on his side when he fucked up again. When probation was over he just left with a slut from his old punk gang. Broke her heart and trust in others. Especially men. But don’t worry. Give her some time, she just needs to get to know you.”

“How about you go to the living room?” Abbie suddenly suggests, “on weekends we often play a board game or watch a movie together. You could look around while I do the dishes.”

“That’s a good Idea, sweetheart,” Rita agrees, “G, you can show him everything. I also wanted to talk to Patrick before he leaves. We three take care of the kitchen in no time.”

G nods and leads you to the living room. It is not big but very cozy. A TV and some cupboards on the walls surround two couches. Rita has a great amount of board games and DVDs. According to G, most are donations from people who stayed here on probation and bought this stuff when they lived here. Since you don’t know what everybody likes you leave it to G to decide. She chooses a board game you don’t know and explains the rules while you wait for the others.

Abbie appears soon and Rita follows a few minutes later. She tells you that officer Reno left to get home before midnight. Paula seems to not want to join you and Sophie is nowhere to be found. But you hardly believe she would be interested in this kind of evening activities. The following two hours you play the game and you learn some more about your roommates and Rita. And also, some things about the town and the people living there. When the clock tells you, it is already 11 pm Rita sends you all to bed.

You lay down on your bed but need some time to sleep. A lot happened today. This morning you still woke up in a prison cell with three other guys. And now you have an own room, a chance for freedom and you are surrounded by beautiful girls around your age. You are not sure if fate wants to reward you for something or makes fun about you since all girls are off limits. Well, whatever it is, you will find out in the next days.